Teaching Transformative Service Learning

Abstract

Service learning describes an increasingly established form of teaching and learning at universities combining academic learning with real-world problem solving. While traditional approaches work within existing social systems and, in the worst case, reproduce and perpetuate social problems, critical and transformative approaches aim at systemic changes in social practice, while showing their potential to address sustainability entrepreneurial competences that are key for (future) agents of transformation. This understanding of service learning challenges students and lecturers, and requires a structured, well-thought-out pathway. Our chapter introduces transformative service learning as a promising approach for entrepreneurship (oriented) education. The argumentation for it is competence-oriented while focusing on the abilities that can promote sustainable development. In addition, the chapter addresses the role of the lecturer, which to date has been rarely and very unsystematically examined. The paper also proposes the specific service learning IOOI tool that aims to support lecturers, especially in the early stages of service learning courses, and help streamline programs.